Patrick Lesec Apollon & Dionysos Syrah 2019

This Syrah takes a refreshingly restrained approach to oak, with only 10% spending time in barrel while the remainder is raised in concrete tanks. This technique preserves the pure fruit expression and creates a wine where power comes from the grapes themselves rather than heavy oak influence. The concrete aging adds textural complexity while maintaining the wine's natural vibrancy and terroir expression.

The name draws from Nietzsche's philosophical concept of two opposing yet complementary forces in art - Apollon representing order and rationality, while Dionysos embodies passion and chaos. This duality perfectly captures Patrick Lesec's winemaking philosophy of balancing power with elegance. The wine itself reflects this harmony through its combination of intense fruit concentration and refined, classical structure.

The blackberry provides the wine's fruit backbone, while black olive adds Mediterranean earthiness and savoury complexity typical of quality Syrah. Allspice brings warming spice notes that bridge the fruit and savoury elements, creating the textured, savoury style profile. This combination suggests a wine with both immediate appeal and the structure to develop more nuanced flavours with proper cellaring.

As a 2019 vintage with 90-point ratings and medium body, this wine is likely drinking beautifully now while still having potential for further development. The concrete aging and minimal oak treatment typically produces wines that are approachable in youth but can evolve gracefully over 5-8 years. The textured, savoury style suggests it will reward both immediate enjoyment and patient cellaring.

The textured, savoury profile with black olive and allspice notes makes this ideal for Mediterranean-inspired dishes like herb-crusted lamb or grilled vegetables with tapenade. The blackberry fruit and medium body also pair excellently with game meats, aged cheeses, or rich mushroom dishes. The wine's balance of power and elegance means it won't overwhelm lighter proteins while having enough structure for heartier fare.